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Book Reviews by Teens, for Teens! |
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Unwind
by Neal Shusterman
Book Reviewed by Jada
"After the second American Civil War over the issue of abortion, it is decided by both sides that teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 could be "unwound," that is, slowly undone like fabric, in order that all their living tissue could be used for organ donations. After Conner learns that his parents have decided to unwind him because of behavioral issues, he sets out to run away, encountering Risa, an orphan slated to be unwound due to budget cuts and Levi, a thirteen-year-old eagerly awaiting his unwinding so he can be given as a tithe to the Lord. Despite their differences, they eventually attempt to find safety for runaways like them in this nightmarish world for any teenager. This book deeply made me consider the meaning of human life and the issue of abortion, adoption, and how the United States as a whole has treated the children under its care, whether through foster care or by a regular mom and dad. It is a must read for anyone who talks about these issues but has not deeply thought about them. This book does discuss many sensitive topics such as abortion, being neglected, and being 'unwound'. It did give me nightmares, so you have been warned!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "I came across Unwind after reading Neal Shusterman's Everlost for Battle of the Books in middle school."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the Hunger Games in its vividness and attention to detail, in addition to giving nightmares."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who likes dystopia or thriller, as well as works such as The Handmaid's Tale.
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Heartless
by Marissa Meyer
Book Reviewed by Sofia
"Heartless by Marissa Meyers, set in Wonderland, is a young adult fantasy book that tells the story of how the Queen of Hearts became the Queen of Hearts. Catherine is one of the most desired women in Wonderland. With her families high ranks, her mother had planned for her to marry the King...that is, until she stumbles out of the castle and runs into Jest, the joker. In a heroic moment, he takes her back to his cabin and tends to her illness. Soon the two will enter a series of their own adventures that includes fun parties with the mad hatter, fighting monsters, and most importantly, to her opening her very own bakery. Catherine's only dream had been to open her own bakery. She is the town's best baker and all she needs to do is come up with the funds and a convincing plan for her parents. Meyer's writing is descriptive, but not boring. She throws in twists and turns in every chapter - you will always be entertained!"
What does this book remind you of? "It's similar in setting to Alice In Wonderland."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "You would love this book if you love the vibes from the Alice in Wonderland productions."
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The Cruel Prince
by Holly Black
Book Reviewed by Caroline
"The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is the first book in a fantasy series called 'Folk of the Air'. It is about a girl named Jude who grew up as a human but was taken by another creature to a different place with no other humans other than her sister. They had lost their parents right in front of them, and their lives were completely changed. They spent their older child and teen years in this other place and ended up meeting lots of new personalities. These people were called "Faeries," and they all looked different. One faerie in particular, Cardan, made Jude's life very difficult every day. He and his friends would bully Jude and even her sister sometimes. Jude has to battle difficult people, situations, and deal with her dark history. This book involves action, mystery, and enemies-to-lovers romance. I thought that this book was really interesting, and I was hooked from the first small chapter. It really got me into fantasy, and I found myself needing to keep reading even when the book was over. Holly Black's writing style is magical, and there is even a map included in the book to make it even more fun to picture each setting in the book."
What does this book remind you of? "This book didn't really remind me of any other books I had read because it was the first fantasy novel I have read. It did kind of remind me of many other movies/books that involved an outsider in a new place, or someone who is different than everyone else. The main character had to overcome lots of adversity and trauma just because she was different than everyone else."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who enjoy fantasy, action/mystery, and enemies to lovers romance would enjoy this book. It involves a strong plot, along with many subplots and romances that enhance the book's story."
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Six of Crows
by Leigh Bardugo
Book Reviewed by Mary Paige
"Six of Crows is an easier read, but is definitely some darker content (saying this as a warning). The story follows a group of teens as they plan and execute the biggest heist their world has ever seen. The team is made up of diverse characters from different backgrounds, and different personalities. The book is exceptionally written, and the plot will keep you guessing. The characters are all relatable in some way and are all equally hilarious. My only warning is that some of the characters have pretty dark, tragic, and graphic backstories that may make some people uncomfortable."
What does this book remind you of? "A TV series called 'Shadow and Bone' was made after this book series and the series before it, but I personally believe the book is better."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who don't have much patience for slow exposition, who love magic, and are fond of the trope 'found family'."
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Shadow and Bone
by Leigh Bardugo
Book Reviewed by Bella
"The nation of Ravka has been torn in two by the Shadow Fold, a strange field of darkness infested with monsters. Alina Starkov is an orphan who believes herself completely powerless. When her regiment is sent through the shadow fold and attacked, as Alina tries to save her best friend from being killed, she reveals a dormant power that saves his life, the same power could possibly save her country from the Fold entirely. She is taken from the life she knew - the only family she knew, to be taken to the royal court and trained as a Grisha. She never imagined she would be a Grisha, someone with power, but now, she may be the most powerful of them all. Alina must now traverse life at the royal court, and uncover many dark secrets along the way. I think anyone who loves a good YA fantasy book would enjoy reading this!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "I heard about it from TikTok and a friend recommended it to me."
What does this book remind you of? "Of course, it reminds me of the 'Shadow & Bone' TV show; I do have to say I prefer the show mainly because it includes other characters from future books that really just make it better. It also kind of reminds me of Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, maybe because of the power dynamics."
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The Once and Future King
by T. H. White
Book Reviewed by Tilghman
"This book combines a lot of the Arthurian legends into one cohesive story. It begins with Arthur as a young boy, learning under Merlin, a wizard who ages backwards. It tells the story of Arthur pulling the sword through the stone, his time as king, the knights of the round table, and the search for the Holy Grail. It also focuses on Sir Lancelot's relationship to Arthur. I really enjoyed this book as it was really humorous and interesting. The author did a great job of immersing the characters and world in a way where you felt like you were hearing someone recount events."
What made you interested in reading this book? "My dad recommended it to me, and I wanted to read about Arthurian legends."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People interested in mythology/myths, Middle Ages lovers, and people interested in King Arthur/ Arthurian Legends."
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The Red Palace
by June Hur
Book Reviewed by Jenna
"In 1758 Joseon (Korea), there are not many career paths open for a young, illegitimate daughter of a nobleman. But with enough studying, dedication, and passion, 18-year-old Hyeon manages to get a position as a palace nurse: the highest honor a woman can receive in medicine. With the help of her beloved mentor, Nurse Jeongsu, Hyeon finally finds a place of belonging. All of that changes one night though when Hyeon is asked to tend to an ill crown prince, then sworn to secrecy about said nights events. The same day, she discovers there has been a series of murders, four women in total. Her mentor is the prime suspect. Determined to clear Jeongsu's name, Hyeon sets out for self to see who has killed the women, aided by the young detective, Eojin. Together they will discover these crimes are much more than they seem, and something larger is at play here. Something that points right to the crown prince himself. Will Hyeon get out of this alive? Or is she the killers next victim? Find out in the stunning thriller: The Red Palace! If you are a fan of historical fiction and mystery, this book is definitely for you. The world and era of 18th century Korea is vibrant here, and the plot had me glued to this story. Hyeon is a wonderfully written character, loyal to a fault and never straying from her morals. Truly a joy to read."
What made you interested in reading this book? "The premise: a female doctor in 18th century Korea finds herself thrust into the middle of a murder mystery while trying to clear her beloved mentor's name. I like mystery. I adore Historical fiction. It was really a match made in heaven."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminded me of the show 'The Ghost Bride', although it doesn't have any supernatural elements to it. Still, the mystery and intrigue of power is still there."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Any fans of mysteries, historical fiction, or K-Dramas will like this."
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The Fountains of Silence
by Ruta Sepetys
Book Reviewed by Jenny
"This book takes place in Madrid, Spain during the late 1950s. There are two sides of the story: the visiting families on grand trips and the residents of Spain kept silent under the Spanish Dictatorship. There are many points of view in this book with their own stories, troubles, and relevance to the whole plot. Though each point of view had their own story, the biggest story is Daniel Matheson who came with his family on business. He is a photographer and works to create a portfolio, and at the place he stays, he meets Ana. She is a girl whose life is filled with secrets, fear, and silence. Where the two sides meet, there is a cross of love, troubles, and the secrets of Spain's history that may be revealed. This historical fiction book is dark, and emotional, and brings to light the history of Spain, and the struggles of power within. I was shocked with how one part of the book in the background built up to be very shocking at the end. Reading this book, you have to be prepared to read very sad parts. This book sows some of the reality of Madrid at the time, and it can be very sad to read. You also have to really focus reading this book, or you will miss key parts. Every chapter has some vital information to the whole plot."
What made you interested in this book? "I was interested in reading this book because I love the author. I came across the book at my school library. This author writes my favorite historical fiction books."
What does this book remind you of? "This is better than most historical shows/movies I have watched before. You get immersed within the plot of the book with the depth of the descriptions of the characters and plot."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who is trying to get into reading historical fiction books should read this book or many other books by this author. I never liked reading historical fiction books, but Ruta Sepetys' books - especially this one - changed that. If you like to read books with multiple character stories, you would love this."
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All the Light We Cannot See
by Anthony Doerr
Book Reviewed by Gracie
"This book follows two main characters, Marie-Laure Leblanc and Werner Pfennig, switching from past to present tense. It’s set during WWII, with Werner living in Germany and Marie in France. Werner is a child genius who quickly attracts the attention of Nazi officers. Throughout the book, he grapples with identity and questions what is right and wrong. Marie is a blind girl who is unintentionally tasked with protecting an extraordinary stone from Nazi general Frank Volkheimer. Throughout the book, she pushes past her physical limitations and rewrites the narrative for individuals with disabilities during WWII. The two characters’ lives are unseemingly intertwined, with Marie representing bravery and light and Werner countering her through his dark thoughts and situation. As a reader, you’ll be inspired by both characters’ resilience in impossible situations and be forced to consider the Holocaust from two opposing points of view. This book is slow-paced with somewhat challenging diction but I felt continuously engaged due to the choppy chapters that switched from one character to the next. Doerr does an excellent job of filling out his characters and slowly reveals their motives and thought processes. Overall, I would highly recommend this book to any reader, as I feel it reexamines the highly popular WWII genre with a fresh perspective."
What does this book remind you of? "This book's setting reminds me of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, and its writing style reminds me of Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "You would enjoy this book if you like historical fiction or are a fan of tear-jerking fiction without the expectation of romance."
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The Mysterious Affair at Styles
by Agatha Christie
Book Reviewed by Jada
"In her debut novel and introduction of the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie weaves a curious tale about the death of Emily Inglethrop, a rich lady who resides in Styles St. Mary and dies after being poisoned, some of the components from her own medicine, the murderer entering and exiting while her bedroom was locked. Suspects include her younger husband (who everyone thinks is a gold-digger), two sons (one of whom is in dire financial need and married), a doctor known the world over as an expert on toxins, a nurse who was a friend of the deceased, and a niece who works at a hospital dispensary. The only one who can solve this mysterious affair? A refugee from World War I by the name of Hercule Poirot, private detective. This book constantly confounded me as I read it, going through so many twists and turns that often Poirot had to start by at square one, the killer always seemingly one step ahead of Poirot and the narrator Hastings. This book was really engaging and well written for a first novel, Christie's knowledge as a nurse working during the first World War really improving the story. For a book that is over 100 years old, it still holds up as the first successful novel of the Queen of Mystery. I would highly recommend listening to this as an audiobook with friends or family, if only so you can theorize about whodunit without someone spoiling it and learn how to pronounce Hercule Poirot's name (Seriously. In the history of literature, it's one of the hardest to pronounce)."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I got into this book, and Agatha Christie in general, after watching "Murder on the Orient Express" in 2018."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of all the classic murder mystery tropes there are, this being a staple of the genre."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Fans who enjoy "Knives Out" will like this mystery novel."
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And Then There Were None
by Agatha Christie
Book Reviewed by Mary Paige
"And Then There Were None is about a group of strangers being brought to a gloomy island for different reasons. They’re an eccentric group, with wise Justice Wargrave, daring Philip Lombard, bibliophile Emily Brent, and more. Each of the main six characters is haunted by some regret or ghost of their past, and when they become stranded on the island due to a storm, they are forced to come face to face with their mistakes. And to add to the suspense, someone appears to be on the island too, picking them off one by one in an eerily similar way to a poem featured throughout the house. This book is a great introduction to the mystery genre and older novels. I have always struggled reading classics due to the formal writing style, but Agatha Christie’s writing is timeless and is easier to read. This book is thought-provoking, spooky, and an amazing read. After finishing this book, I highly recommend re-reading it, as when I did, I caught onto to so many clues and hints. This book has become one of my favorites and I hope everyone reading this review gives it a chance! Agatha Christie’s writing style is perfect, and this book has helped transition me from younger novels to age-old classics!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "My English teacher had us read the book during October as a spooky read. I’ve always wanted to get into mystery novels, so I was very excited."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of "Knives Out", "The Birds", and "Psycho".
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who would love this book are those who love a plot twist and like to analyze and think about the book while reading it."
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I'll Give You the Sun
by Jandy Nelson
Book Reviewed by Gracie
"I’ll Give You the Sun follows fraternal twins Noah and Jude. Their whole lives, they’ve competed for their parents’ attention, with Jude flexing her athletic prowess and Noah his artistic talent. That is, until their mother dies and everything changes. I’ll Give You the Sun is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of grief, sexuality, and identity. It’ll make you laugh out loud and cry hysterically. You won’t want to say goodbye to the characters at the end of the story. This is a fast-paced book with easy diction, so it's perfect for a relaxing read. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a sappy, emotional, and eventually feel-good story."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I randomly found this book in the library, and I'm so glad I did!"
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the song 'What Was I Made For' by Billie Eilish and the book The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I would recommend this book to teens who are trying to form their identity."
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Sway With Me
by Syed Masood
Book Reviewed by Jada
"Arsalan, a high school student being raised by his 100-year-old great grandfather (Nana), is anxious about his future. At any moment, his abusive father could come home and force him and Nana out into the street. Having no other family or friends, he seeks the help of Beenish, the stepdaughter to a well-known matchmaker, to assist him in finding a potential wife. She agrees on one condition: he helps her crash her sister's wedding by doing a dance she's not supposed to do. Arsalan agrees, unexpectedly making friends along the way and slowly falling for Beenish in the process as they sway together. The contrast between Arsalan, a nerd who should've been born two generations prior, and Beenish, an outspoken, witty dancer, is hilarious and entertaining. Nana is a great character as well, and the message of found family and accepting who you are regardless of what others think of you is handled with excellence. This is a wonderful book if you need to have your spirits lifted. The author of this book was also not ashamed to advertise his first novel, More than Just a Pretty Face, in this story - I thought it was hilarious and very metatextual."
What made you interested in reading this book? "The title comes from the song 'Sway' by Paublo Beltrán Ruiz (though it has had many covers as well)."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the song 'Sway' (obviously), and Beenish´s character especially reminds me of Nazeera Ibrahim from the Shatter Me series because both of them have an "I don't care what others think" attitude, and really give both books a lot of energy and life."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who is into Lollywood, dancing, mentions of physics, intellectual conversations, foil characters, and romance."
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Better Than The Movies
by Lynn Painter
Book Reviewed by Sofia
"Better than the Movies is a young adult romance novel about high school students. Liz and Wes are neighbors in their senior year of high school, both just trying to make it through. Recently Liz's childhood crush moved back into town, and she is determined to get him. She soon realizes that her long time nemesis and neighbor Wes is the only way to get into Michael's heart. This book is a perfect short read, with short chapters and intense chemistry between characters. Lynn Painter is one of the best authors for writing engaging books for teenagers and adults with relatable characters and scenes. Liz is a girl who has a few friends and loves to read. Wes is kind of a jock. When the two come together, there is so much tension that it's impossible to not continue reading to see what happens. You would love this book if you like light and easy reads! It is closed doored (so no spice) and super quick."
What does this book remind you of? "It is similar to other books by Lynn Painter."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "You would love this book if you like light and easy reads! It is closed doored (so no spice) and super quick."
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Addicted to You
by Krista Ritchie
Book Reviewed by Sofia
"Addicted To You is an adult romance novel perfect for people who are ready to dive deep into a story of heartbreak, addiction, love, and so much more. This novel is mainly centered around our two main characters Lily, who has a sex addiction, and Loren, who is an alcoholic. The pair have been childhood friends due to their families close proximity in the business world, and as they battle to work against their addictions they begin to realize that maybe all they really needed the whole time was each other. The series doesn't stop there though - throughout the story, new main characters are introduced. Lilie's sisters Daisy and Rose are introduced in the first book, along with a couple other male leads, Ryke and Connor. All of these couples end up having their own spinoff series as well, meaning that if you love the first books on Lily and Loren, the series won't stop there! All of the characters have super relatable traits which makes it so easy to love each and every one! The writing of the book flows really well with short chapters and more dialogue over description!"3
What does this book remind you of? "It is similar to the Magnolia Parks series, as well as the show 'Gossip Girl'."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "If you love shows like 'Gossip Girl' and 'Friends' it's perfect for you! It revolves around super rich families that all have super close bonds!"
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It Ends With Us
by Colleen Hoover
Book Reviewed by Sarah B."This book takes place in a modern time in a city setting. You follow the main character, Lily, as she figures herself out and finds a mysterious man on a rooftop. As she meets this man and starts to explore where he could leads her, an alternate timeline takes you through the first boy she fell in love with. Do these letters she had written to him change anything? Who really is this mystery man? This book was exciting and I couldn't put it down! I loved it and it has a wonderful underlying meaning as well as a quick paced plot with lots of twists and turns. I think it is absolutely worth all the attention it got on social media and you should give it a chance at least one time!"
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds of the movie "Where the Crawdads Sing", but it was also very unique to anything I had read or seen before."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I think this book is for absolutely anyone, but especially young women. I also think anyone who loves romance would adore this book."
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Just for the Summer
by Abby Jimenez
Book Reviewed by Cecelia
"The story follows a girl named Emma who is a travel nurse and she comes across a Reddit post by this guy named Justin. In the post Justin explains how every girl he dates goes to find their soulmate right after breaking up with him, and Emma reaches out to say the same thing happens to her. Throughout the story you follow Emma and Justin get to know each other, while also dealing with family trauma. I saw this book all over my social media, and I really wanted to read a summery book to get ready for the warm weather!"
What does this book remind you of? "Book Lovers by Emily Henry is similar to this book because it deals with family struggles but also has the summer time feel!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who wants to read a good book on the beach and also cry your heart out, this one is for you! It was so much deeper than I expected, and you really feel connected to the characters and their struggles."
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This Summer Will Be Different
by Carley Fortune
Book Reviewed by Cecelia
"This story starts with Lucy meeting her best friend Bridget's little brother Felix in a surprising way, and you follow them navigate throughout 5 years of liking each other but not being able to. The book is set in St. Peters Edwards Island in Canada, and the setting is so beautiful and summery. You watch as Lucy manages her work life and a problem with her best friends, all while trying to stay away from Felix but not being able to."
What does this book remind you of? "Honestly, any Emily Henry book because of the writing style and just the summertime feel of the book."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "If you're someone who wants a romance book with a slow burn and a stunning summery setting in Canada, you would absolutely love this book!"
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Redeeming Love
by Francine Rivers
Book Reviewed by Gracie
"Redeeming Love is a biblical retelling of the Old Testament Book of Hosea. It’s set in the California Gold Rush of 1850. Angel represents Gomer, an unfaithful prostitute, and Michael represents Hosea, a prophet. Michael is called by God to marry Angel, but it will be more difficult than originally expected. Throughout the book, Angel struggles to find self-worth and continually denies God’s love for her. Michael, on the other hand, is challenged to remain steadfast in his faith, even when it feels like God has set him on an impossible mission. This book explores faith and the truth of God’s plan. It is slow to begin, but I implore you to continue, for once it does, it’s almost impossible to stop. I cannot say enough good things about this story. To this day it is my all-time favorite read."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who are looking for biblically accurate retellings would enjoy this book, as would anyone who wants to understand the Bible but struggles with its classical style."
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Jurassic Park
by Michael Crichton
Book Reviewed by Tilghman
"John Hammond has been able to clone dinosaurs using the DNA from insects trapped in amber. Hammond, being the business man he is, decides to build an amusement park on a remote island: Isla Nublar. As the park is nearing completion, Hammond invites two paleontologists, one mathematician, and his grandkids to the park where an unfortunate tragedy awaits. I loved Crichton's attention to detail, as well as his gory descriptions of scenes. I felt the length was perfect, and the writing style was awesome. As a massive fan of the movies, I loved the book!"
What does this book remind you of? "'Jurassic Park', the movie, which was based off this book."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Fans of the movie, dinosaur fans, and sci-fi lovers."
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Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
by Philip K Dick
Book Reviewed by Tilghman
"In a Earth devastated by nuclear war, most of the population has moved to other planets. Most of the animals that once flourished on Earth have become extinct, and owning pets has become a great prestige. Androids have been created to serve humans, but some kill their owners and try to blend into society. Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter, is tasked with finding and "retiring" six rogue androids. He wants to earn enough money to replace his electric sheep with a real animal. This story is full of adventure and you never know what is going to happen next. I thought that the author's world building was great and I was immersed in the story the entire time."
What does this book remind you of? "Foundation, by Isaac Asimov. The world building and immersion levels are similar."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Sci-fi lovers, post-apocalyptic story lovers, and anyone interested in AI going rogue."
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Foundation
by Isaac Asimov
Book Reviewed by Tilghman
"In a future galaxy, a mathematician is able to foretell the future using mathematics. He predicts the fall of the galactic empire, and with it, a thousand years of barbaric times. He sets out to create a foundation in order to preserve the knowledge of the Galactic Empire, and shorten the barbaric times greatly. This book does a great job of immersing readers in the universe as well as building connections between characters and readers. I felt this book did a great job setting up the rest of the series, and Asimov's writing style brought it all together. I would consider this to be one of my favorite books of all time!"
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick, because of the expertly crafted world building."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who loves sci-fi, math, or thinking of the future."
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Fatal North: Murder and Survival on the First North Pole Expedition
by Bruce Henderson
Book Reviewed by Jenny
"This book tells the story of a 100-year-old unsolved mystery of the journey of the USS Polaris to reach the North Pole, led by Captain Charles Hall. In an unexpected turn, Hall dies, and members of the crew become stranded...but how that happens is unknown, until Charles Hall's grave is found and the conclusion to this mystery reached. This book was filled with different accounts from the crewmembers, photographs, and journal entries from Hall and others aboard the ship. This book was fast-paced, and filled with science, history and most of all drama. I liked how it was able to describe changes to the environment around them, including climate change. This book gives you a different perspective on historical expeditions, for sometimes they do not have a inspiring story to tell."
What made you interested in reading this book? "For my Marine Science class, we needed to select an nonfiction book to read and write about. I was interested in this book because it was in a story format which I gravitate towards, and it was historical, and checked it out in my school library."
What does this book remind you of? "This was unlike anything I have ever read or watched before."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "If you like history, drama, and scientific insights, then you would love this."
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Between the World and Me
by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Book Reviewed by Caroline
"Between the World and Me is about a man writing a letter to his son. The letter includes the father's perception of the world as it relates to treatment of people of color. He is preparing his son for a world that is not always easy, kind, or simple. He tells stories of his own childhood, as well as his son's experiences. I felt that this book was very inspiring, but also emotional. Some of the stories that were told were very sad and scary, and I could not imagine what I would do in those situations. The author was very direct, and he was not afraid to tell the stories how they were. His writing style was strong, and he used powerful diction to get his ideas across."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the movie "Green Book." Both of these stories show the world from a black man's perspective and describe the issues with the world that privileged people might overlook."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who enjoy learning about other people's experiences might enjoy this book. Also people who want to be more educated on the modern society would definitely find this book intriguing."
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Educated: A Memoir
by Tara Westover
Book Reviewed by Caroline
"Educated is a memoir about a girl named Tara (the author) and her family. Her family was not like most other families, as they often went against societal norms and handled issues their own way. For example, they would use natural remedies rather than medicines or doctors for sickness or injuries. They were also very religious and believed in things that not many other families believed in. This memoir describes Tara's life growing up and how she handled her own goals and aspirations that went against what her family supported. I found it very interesting, almost as if it was not a true story at all."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. Where the Crawdads Sing is not a true story, but both of these books focus on one female main character and her life as she grows up and copes with many difficult circumstances. Where the Crawdads Sing mainly tells the story of a girl who was left only with the memory of her family, and Educated is about a girl who rarely leaves her family."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who enjoy reading true stories about other people's lives would enjoy this book. It is not like other true stories, as it has a very strong plot and interesting events that occur."
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The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
Book Reviewed by Mae
"This memoir was one the most beautiful stories I have read. Jeanette, the main character and author, tells her life story in such a moving and emotional way. You truly begin to feel like you know the characters personally. This book tells the story of a family who lives on the move while faces many battles such as addiction and poverty. I never once got bored and finished this book in 4 days! Five stars, hands down. It’s a quick read!"
What does this book remind you of? "The Glass Castle isn’t really like anything I have ever read. It was completely out of my comfort zone."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who just want to read non-fiction, classic novels."
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Spy x Family, Volume 1
by Tatsuya Endåo
Manga Reviewed by Jada
"A cold war brews between the powerful nations of Westalis and Ostania for information. The best spy for Westalis is Twilight, who has been given the most challenging mission of his life: to marry and obtain a small child in order to infiltrate Ostania's most elite academy in order to get close to Donovan Desmond, a man who threatens the fragile peace between the two nations. He's successful in the first part of his mission, only he doesn't know he married a secret assassin, and his adopted six-year-old is a telepath. This book is fabulous. It hits all the right beats and, before you know it, you're left wanting the next issue. The Forger family is a bright light in the midst of a cloudy, gray world that threatens to break into all-out war if they don't stop it. While the family is extremely gifted, it comes at the cost of them being socially inept, making for a great comedy inside this spy thriller. A must read for anyone who feels like they don't belong or are going through hard times. If anyone likes the manga, I recommend watching the anime as well in English dub (it's that good!)"
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of any James Bond flick and K-Drama level antics.".
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who is into spies and found family stories."
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InuYasha, Volume 1: Turning Back Time
by Rumiko Takahashi
Manga Reviewed by Jenna
"When 15-year-old Kagome Higurashi accidentally falls into a well at her family’s shrine, she travels back in time to find magic and reincarnation are indeed real, and so are demons. She carries with her (unknowingly) the Shikron jewel–a gem that in the wrong hands could take over the world. While fighting off a demon, Kagome comes across Inuyasha, a half-demon who wants the jewel to become a full demon. However, through a series of mishaps the Shikron jewel is shattered into numerous pieces across time and space. Together, they reluctantly team up to defeat the monsters and collect the shards of the Shikron jewel. Filled with a cast of humorous characters, this manga is a roller coaster of masterful storytelling. Both Kagome and Inuyasha are strong characters. Their bickering and chemistry are brilliantly done, and they are both very compelling in their own right. This is the best comic I have ever come across, truly an amazing read."
What made you interested in reading this manga? "I came across this book because I had started watching the show of the same name on Netflix out of boredom one summer day, and I've never looked back. Of course, the books are better than the anime."
What does this manga remind you of? "This manga reminds me a lot of 'Clone Wars' in humor and action, classic folk tales in storytelling, and 'Sailor Moon' slightly in the way some of the magical powers are explained."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Fans of action and light fun will definitely be interested in this story."
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New Hanover County Library
201 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
910-798-6301www.nhclibrary.org |
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